Real Madrid News
Morocco attempt to convince Real Madrid breakthrough prospect to change international allegiance
The rapid rise of Thiago Pitarch at Real Madrid has not only caught the attention of fans but has also sparked interest at the international level.
In fact, according to a report from El Mundo, the Morocco national football team is exploring the possibility of convincing the young midfielder to represent them internationally.
As per the outlet, the connection comes through Pitarch’s family, as his grandfather was born in the Moroccan city of Al Hoceima.
However, despite Morocco’s efforts, the player and his family reportedly have a clear preference regarding his international future.
Spain leading the race for Pitarch
While Morocco are trying to persuade the midfielder to switch allegiance, Pitarch appears focused on representing the Spanish national football team.
In fact, the Spanish federation is expected to include him in the upcoming Spain national under-21 football team squad, signalling their intention to secure his international commitment early.
The move comes shortly after the midfielder delivered an eye-catching performance in Real Madrid’s recent Champions League clash against Manchester City.
Morocco hoping for a different outcome
Morocco’s approach is understandable given the country’s growing ambition to strengthen its national team with talented dual-nationality players.
Officials are aware of Pitarch’s family connection to the country and hope that it could eventually influence his decision.
However, for now the midfielder’s priority appears to be continuing his development with Spain’s youth teams.
The Brahim Diaz case
The situation inevitably brings to mind another case involving a Real Madrid player.
Brahim Diaz, who was born in Malaga, initially represented Spain at the youth level but later chose to switch allegiance to Morocco after finding it difficult to break into the Spanish senior team.
That change occurred in 2024 and proved to be a major boost for Morocco.
At this stage, though, the story around Pitarch appears to be unfolding differently.
The midfielder seems committed to Spain’s national team pathway while continuing to establish himself within the Real Madrid first-team environment.
Real Madrid News
Mourinho considering starting 23-year-old Real Madrid ace against Villarreal – report
After impressing during the international break, Eduardo Camavinga has a major opportunity to establish himself in Real Madrid’s midfield rotation.
Indeed, according to Defensa Central, Jose Mourinho is considering starting the Frenchman against Villarreal, with injuries and doubts over several players limiting his options.
Real Madrid cannot afford to drop points against Villarreal if they want to remain in the title race. However, Mourinho has issues to deal with in the squad, which could lead him to turn to Camavinga for a crucial role.
Camavinga could replace Tchouameni in midfield
The 23-year-old star could line up as the defensive midfielder in the double pivot, with Bernardo Silva or Arda Guler alongside him, and will be tasked with providing balance in midfield.
Real Madrid face Villarreal with several problems in central defence. Ibrahima Konate is expected to be a late call, leading Mourinho to consider moving Aurelien Tchouameni into defence alongside Antonio Rudiger.
Meanwhile, Federico Valverde could also struggle to be ready after the ankle injury he sustained in the derby before the international break.
The Uruguayan has continued to work individually away from the group and might return to group training tomorrow. Even then, his readiness to start remains in question.
That would leave a place open in midfield, with Camavinga in line to fill in.
Camavinga impressed during the international break
Camavinga has started only one match this season, the defeat against Real Betis.
Despite his limited opportunities, Mourinho is keen to bring the Frenchman back into the fold after he impressed for France during the international break.
Zinedine Zidane called the Real Madrid star up for his first France squad, and the midfielder performed well during the break.
That has given Mourinho and Real Madrid reason to be optimistic about using him against Villarreal, with the hope that he can move closer to the level he showed after first arriving at the club.
Therefore, the Villarreal match could represent an important test for Camavinga and a chance for the Frenchman to show that he can provide the balance Real Madrid need in midfield.
